Alperen Şengün

For Alperen Şengün, the mathematical equation needed to solve the Minnesota Timberwolves in overtime had already been written out. If the reigning four-time Defensive Player of the Year was “too small,” — as Şengün’s celebration overtly suggested — then it was only right for the Houston Rockets star center to come up big in a must-score situation. Generating momentum through a ghost-like screen-and-roll, Şengün, upon receiving a pocket pass, screeches to a halt near the free throw line, preparing his move against Rudy Gobert’s long-celebrated defense. Powerful in leveraging his way within arm’s reach of the basket, Şengün, skillful as ever around the rim, angles a bank shot softly through, affording the Houston Rockets a four-point boost in OT’s final two minutes. Houston’s late-game execution, highlighted by Şengün’s excellence throughout an 11-0 run, eventually led to an NBA Cup victory, allowing them to clinch West Group A. Limitless in his capabilities, Şengün embarked upon career triple-double No. 7, recording 22 points, 10 rebounds, 11 assists, three steals, three blocks, and a +28 plus-minus on November 26, 2024.